Hackers Claim Denuvo DRM Cracked as 2K and Denuvo Introduce Mandatory 14-Day Online Checks for Select Games

April 28, 2026 - 17:23

In a significant development for the gaming industry, hackers have recently claimed to have successfully cracked Denuvo, one of the most widely used and controversial digital rights management (DRM) systems. This alleged breakthrough has prompted an unexpected response from game publisher 2K and Denuvo itself, who have reportedly implemented mandatory 14-day online verification checks for certain titles. Among the games affected by this new measure are NBA 2K26 and Marvel’s Midnight Suns, both of which now require periodic internet connectivity to validate their licenses.

The move appears to be a direct countermeasure against the reported cracking of Denuvo, which has long been a target for piracy groups. The new checks force players to connect to the internet every two weeks to confirm their game ownership, effectively preventing offline play for extended periods. This has sparked debate within the gaming community, as many users argue that such restrictions penalize legitimate buyers while doing little to deter determined pirates. Critics also point out that the requirement could become problematic for players with unreliable internet connections or those who travel frequently.

While 2K and Denuvo have not officially commented on the hacking claims, the implementation of these checks suggests a heightened concern over security vulnerabilities. The gaming industry continues to grapple with the balance between protecting intellectual property and providing a seamless user experience, and this latest development underscores the ongoing arms race between developers, publishers, and hackers.